How a Locksmith Scam Works

Posted on December 14, 2020

Every day, people experience different kinds of lock and key situations. The most usual way of how people handling these is by hiring a locksmith. But most of the time, people can get unlucky by choosing a locksmith scam, losing more money than what was offered.

It’s simple how it works. You got into a problem and grabbed your phone to search for a locksmith. Results appeared, and you picked a locksmith with the most convincing and promising website. They offered a low-price of service over the phone, and you agreed. They dispatched their fake locksmith and looked into your locks. Without them being qualified, licensed, and certified, they would provide a solution which they could drill and replace your locks for a price even though they could just simply pick it.

Every service they perform will be charged doubled or more than the original offered price. With so many options to a simple problem, they’ll offer you the only option which could get expensive.

This method is called “bait-and-switch.” It’s the most effective way of luring victims most especially when there is an emergency. Oblivious customers will get attracted to ads that claim they have cheap $10 locksmith and appealing websites. Before they know it, they already got caught into a trap. As anyone can pick a lock and create a website, anyone can also get trapped only to be squeezed their money.

The switch is when the actual service is taking place. They’ll provide a bogus solution to charge you more. The original price of $25 will become $450 or more. When asked why, they’ll get defensive and add reasons like call charge, travel fee, labor, and what not. If you refuse to pay, they’ll threaten you to call the police. They could also damage your property in the process with you knowing.

Thousands and thousands of property owners fall victims to these scams. It’s one of the fastest growing scams in the country burying the real and honest locksmiths. If you’re not careful, it’s possible that you’ll hire an unlicensed locksmith that hasn’t undergone any background check giving him access to your property.

Educate yourself and be prepared for any situation. If you hire a locksmith and your gut tells you something otherwise, follow it and look for another. Being aware and educated is your best weapon against frauds and scams.